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Virtual Reference Library Jobs in Oakland, CA (NOW HIRING)

ServiceNow Trainer

San Ramon, CA · On-site +1

$80K/yr

Facilitate live (virtual and in-person) ServiceNow training for technical and non-technical ... Produce and maintain high-quality training videos, instructor guides, reference guides, and job ...

Trainers may conduct in-person or virtual and train the trainer sessions; create training materials ... Produce and maintain highquality training videos, instructor guides, reference guides, and job aids.

Virtual Reference Library information

See Oakland, CA salary details

$75.8K

$79.2K

$82.1K

How much do virtual reference library jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual reference library in Oakland, CA is $79,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,200.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a virtual reference library?

A Virtual Reference Library is an online collection of reference materials such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, guides, and databases that can be accessed remotely via the internet. It is designed to help users find reliable information quickly without needing to visit a physical library. Virtual Reference Libraries are commonly used by students, researchers, and the general public for research, homework, and general knowledge inquiries. Many libraries and educational institutions subscribe to these services to provide convenient, 24/7 access to authoritative resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual reference librarian?

To thrive as a Virtual Reference Librarian, you need a strong background in information science, research skills, and a library science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with online databases, digital catalog systems, and virtual communication platforms is essential for providing remote assistance. Excellent interpersonal communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability are key soft skills that enhance user engagement and support. These competencies ensure accurate information delivery and effective user support in a digital environment.

How does a virtual reference librarian typically collaborate with other library staff and departments while working remotely?

As a Virtual Reference Librarian, collaboration with colleagues is essential and primarily takes place through digital platforms such as email, chat, and video conferencing tools. You may regularly coordinate with subject specialists, technical services, and IT staff to resolve patron inquiries, develop instructional materials, or update digital resources. Effective communication and timely information sharing are key to ensuring consistent and high-quality service to patrons. Virtual team meetings and shared project management tools help maintain alignment and foster a supportive remote work environment.

What is the difference between Virtual Reference Library vs Library Technician?

AspectVirtual Reference LibraryLibrary Technician
Required CredentialsMLS or MLIS degree often preferredAssociate's degree in library technology or related field
Work EnvironmentOnline platforms, remote workPhysical library settings, on-site
Employer & Industry UsageLibraries, educational institutions, online info servicesPublic, academic, or special libraries
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in digital info servicesJob responsibilities and qualifications

Virtual Reference Library professionals primarily provide online information assistance, often working remotely, while Library Technicians work in physical library environments assisting with daily operations. Both roles support library services but differ in work setting and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Reference Library jobs in Oakland, CA?

For Virtual Reference Library jobs in Oakland, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Virtual Reference Library jobs in Oakland, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Virtual Reference Library jobs in Oakland, CA are:

What cities near Oakland, CA are hiring for Virtual Reference Library jobs?

Cities near Oakland, CA with the most Virtual Reference Library job openings:

Infographic showing various Virtual Reference Library job openings in Oakland, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 45% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 52% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,220 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Research & Public Services Assistant (6759C) Library, #87420

Berkeley, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

At the University of California, Berkeley , we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty, and staff, who are among the most talented and accomplished anywhere, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and MacArthur Fellows. Since our founding in 1868, we have been an engine for innovation - driving intellectual, economic, and social progress that benefits California, the U.S., and beyond. Together, we change the world.
At Berkeley, the best careers are built on a foundation of continuous learning and growth . We actively support professional development by providing all full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours of paid time per year and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups.
We invite applicants who are inspired by our Principles of Community and who are eager to be part of our exciting Strategic Plan , which charts Berkeley's next era of excellence.
Learn more about some of our accomplishments at Points of Pride .
Departmental Overview
The Social Sciences Division (SSD) includes the Business, Environmental Design, and Social Research Libraries, as well as extensive collections in Doe. The SSD supports research and teaching in all social sciences at Berkeley, and includes collections and research support for Latin America, Africa, and the countries of the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.
Position Summary
The Research & Public Services Assistant provides in-person and virtual public service support within the library, including reference and research assistance through multiple service channels such as LibAnswers. This position contributes to the development of research guides and web resources that support student and faculty research needs. The Research & Public Services Assistant supports students, faculty, staff, and independent scholars by assisting with the development of research strategies and navigation of a wide range of research databases to meet diverse research needs. Additionally, this position collaborates with library colleagues to ensure effective public service operations and provides instructional support for student library employees at circulation and public service desks.
Responsibilities
Circulation - 45%
  • Monitors Circulation functions and supports student library employees as Social Sciences Library Service desks; conducts complex circulation functions and assists patrons with directional questions. Works with Student Supervisors to ensure student staff follow best practices and proper procedures for opening and fulfillinf circulation duties Assists patrons with informational questions, check outs, paging library materials, returns, and other circulation functions. Maintains in-person support for opening procedures at Social Science Division Libraries (Business, Environmental Design, and Social Research), rotating as needed to support varied staffing levels. Follows Library protocol for reporting and appropriately escalating safety and security issues in Social Science Libraries, under the direction of the Chief Operations Manager.
Reference - 45%
  • Provides advanced research support to patrons using the library's databases and resources in a variety of formats and Social Science disciplines. Provides online research guidance to UC Berkeley and public patrons via the LibAnswers chat and email platform. Triages social science research questions to connect patrons with subject experts. Under the direction of librarians, creates and maintains web-based resources to support research and instruction, and handles specialized reference queries.
SLF-N processing and support - 5%
  • Assists in pulling, processing and packing materials in the Social Sciences Division for storage.
Assists with the training and assessment of student employees - 5%
  • Under the direction of the Chief Operations Manager, this position will work with Student Supervisors to ensure student staff follow best practices and proper procedures for opening and closing procedures at the Business Library, and provide continuity of service at Business when students are not present.
Required Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience with academic library catalogs, databases, and research resources.
  • Experience with standard office software.
  • Ability to communicate effectively (verbally and in writing) and work in a team.
  • Ability to complete detailed work accurately.
  • Experience working in a library.
  • Advanced problem solving and decision-making ability.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience providing customer service.
Education / Training
  • Bachelors degree in a related subject and/or equivalent experience/training
Salary & Benefits
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.
Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $30.55 9step 1.0) - $31.97 (step 3.0).
  • This is a non-exempt, bi-weekly paid position.
  • This is an 10-month, part-time (20 hours/week), Limited [temporary] position that is eligible for UC benefits.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.
Other Information
  • This position is not eligible for remote work.
  • This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H-1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.
  • This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Clerical & Allied Services Unit (CX) between the University of California and Teamsters Local 2010. The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/cx/index.html
Misconduct
As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
Misconduct means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
Abusive Conduct in the Workplace
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.